Company Overview
Watkins, a NEBCO Company, provides high-quality concrete and masonry building materials to residential and commercial markets across Nebraska and the surrounding region. With decades of experience serving the construction industry, Watkins is fundamental to building Nebraska, with operations in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Kearney.
Watkins manufactures and distributes standard and architectural concrete block, segmental retaining wall systems, concrete pavers, and a wide range of related building materials, including brick, stone, exterior finishes, fabricated rebar, sealers, tools, and other construction essentials. Through automated manufacturing facilities, multiple distribution locations, and indoor and outdoor showrooms, Watkins supports contractors, commercial builders, and do-it-yourself customers alike.
Built on a foundation of quality products and dependable service, Watkins is committed to meeting the needs of today’s builders and the future of construction.

NEBCO, Inc.
NEBCO’s story has been one of longevity, diversity and continued growth. NEBCO is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business, with more than 1,100 employees spanning 50 locations across Nebraska. Since 1908 NEBCO has grown to become one of Nebraska’s most diversified and successful privately-owned businesses. For more information about NEBCO, Inc., visit www.nebcoinc.com.
Job Summary
This position serves as General Manager of Watkins Concrete Block Companies, including Reimers Kaufman, Christensen Concrete, and Kearney Crete & Block and is responsible for the efficient operation of the business unit(s) as assigned, which includes the safety, supervision, and coordination of employees including hiring, training, coaching, engagement, and disciplinary actions. Also implements strategic planning for the business unit(s), managing production and personnel safety and efficiency, managing quality and delivery of manufactured products, and managing raw materials and product inventory for the business unit. Must have a focus on customer service to continue and improve providing customers with exceptional service and solutions.
All NEBCO leaders are charged with serving as role models by demonstrating company standards for ethical and professional behavior in support of the overall mission and values and must abide by Company Safety Program and Policies, while performing duties safely.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Oversees operational and personnel activities in the facility and ensure the safe, clean, and efficient operation of the site(s).
Ensures quality management procedures are implemented and maintained.
Focuses on safety, quality, and productivity requirements in accordance with company needs and customer requirements.
Assures production and distribution of all products in accordance with policies, principles, and procedures established by the department/company and adhere to applicable regulations.
Performs a broad range of supervisory responsibilities over subordinate staff, which would include onboarding, training & development, terminations, disciplinary process, evaluation of performance and recommendation of salary actions. Coordinate with the appropriate departments, such as Human Resources, Payroll & Benefits, and Safety to recruit, hire, and train new personnel.
Maintains work schedules and work assignments, ensure time and attendance is properly maintained, monitored, and approved in a timely manner.
Maintains certifications with applicable industry standards.
Reviews production costs and modifies production and inventory control programs to maintain and enhance profitability and efficient operation of the plants.
Evaluates work procedures and modifies duties of personnel associated with the production of goods to meet the needs of the company.
Maintains all personnel records to ensure compliance with and ongoing tracking activities required by applicable federal and state regulations and company guidelines.
Oversees trucks and equipment, to assure repair or service work is scheduled and maintained.
Manages and confers with the sales team, customers, and representatives of trade associations to evaluate and promote improved and expanded services in area.
Maintains and directs the business units’ safety campaign and assure standards are met by observing and monitoring objects, data, and people's behavior.
Looks for ways to improve operations, decrease turnaround time, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively to provide good customer service.
Maintains general oversight and ensures accuracy of records including Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Inventory, Purchasing and Sales.
Develops and recommends budgets to management.
Prioritizes and implements succession plans to sustain future health of the company.
Designs strategies and actions focused on attracting, retaining, and increasing companies’ market and competitiveness throughout the market.
Stays involved with all facets of industry through local, area and national networks/associations to ensure Company is current, vital and operates with the best practices possible.
Other duties as required.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in construction management or related field; and
- 5 years related industry experience in a supervisory/leadership role; or
- equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
- CDL helpful, but not necessary.
Other Qualifications:
- Must understand practices of effective supervision and foster a cooperative work environment.
- Must have a proven track record of increasing responsibility and results in supervision, production, operations and maintenance, profitability, and sales.
- Must have understanding of the Safety Rules & Regulations of the industry required.
- Must be able to read, understand, and write documentation such as operations manuals, equipment instructions, safety rules, etc. and communicate with management and subordinates to solve problems, provide instruction, etc.
- Knowledge of order processing systems, payroll systems, spreadsheet software, and word processing software.
Other Skills and Abilities:
- Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret construction documents and specifications.
- Ability to write business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
- Previous personnel scheduling experience is helpful but not necessary.
Work Environment
- Showroom/business environment. Dress code is professional business/casual.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. This is a tobacco free campus.
Benefits Include
- Retirement Plans
- PAID Holidays
- Insurance Benefits
- Wellness Program - with the opportunity to earn five additional days off
- PAID Time Off
- On the Job Training
Condition of Employment
Candidate is required to meet the above qualifications. Approval of pre-employment reference, background checks and post offer substance testing are required as conditions of employment.